Parenteral Basics
What does parenteral mean
Administered by a route other than the digestive tract
True or False: A 25-gauge needle is large than an 18-gauge
False- the larger the number the smaller the needle
At what angle should and IM injection be given?
90 degrees
What is the main purpose of using the Z-track method?
Ensures the medication does not leak back along the needle track and into the subcutaneous tissue
Name the three main parenteral routes and their abbreviations
Intramuscular (IM), Subcutaneous (SQ), and Intradermal (ID)
When should you go up a syringe size?
When the dose is more than half the syringe volume
Name 3 of the 4 intramuscular injection sites
Deltoid Muscle
Dorsogluteal Muscle
Ventrogluteal Muscle
Vastus Lateralis Muscle
List the steps of the Z-track method in order (5 steps)
1. Pull the skin down or to one side about 1inch
2. Insert needle
3. Inject slowly
4. Withdraw the needle
5. Release the skin
Why is the parenteral route sometimes preferred over oral medications? (There are 3 possible answers you must get at least 2)
It provides faster absorption, avoids the GI tract, and ensures delivery when the patient can't take oral meds.
What needle gauge and length are typically used with subcutaneous injections
25-30 gauge, 5/8-1 inch
What are two key steps to reduce pain during an IM injection?
2. Inject the medication slowly and steadily
What needle gauge and length are typically used with the Z track method
18-25 gauge, 1-1.5 inches long